The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce met with the leadership of the Manchester Police Department Thursday to discuss safety and quality-of-life concerns in the city.
After a year of increased robberies in the city, Chief David Mara addressed a room full of about 40 business owners. He said efforts are underway to increase police presence and visibility.
“We’re going to be making a concerted effort downtown. They’re gonna be going in and out of businesses, they’re gonna be talking to people. We want them to be ambassadors.”
Norri Oberlander, a downtown landlord with North End Properties, says she’s already noticed a change.
“I wasn’t happy with the police coverage last year. And I think that you guys, before even rolling out this plan. I’ve seen police officers downtown like I’ve before.”
Others like Tim Baines, who owns Mint Bistro, says he and his employees have seen more criminal activity in parking garages.